Actor and Dungeons & Dragons enthusiast Joe Manganiello has revealed more details about his upcoming dark fantasy setting, "Death Saves." Originally hinted at through an event description at GenCon, the setting is set to become an official mainline D&D product under a new "Black Label" line, designed to offer a grittier, more mature experience.
Developed in collaboration with Mike Mearls, a key figure in the 5th edition of D&D and former franchise creative director, Death Saves draws inspiration from Manganiello's clothing line of the same name. Mearls' involvement marks his return to direct work on a mainline D&D product since his departure from Wizards of the Coast in 2023. The "Black Label" moniker suggests a thematic departure, akin to DC Comics' adult-oriented imprint, hinting at darker storytelling.
The narrative of Death Saves centers on a world where the eternal Blood War between demons and devils has concluded, the gods are deceased, and existence itself hangs precariously. This lore appears to integrate with official D&D cosmology, as suggested by the shift from "Great War" to "Blood War" in promotional materials. Manganiello has expressed a desire to "draw from D&D’s past to chart its future" with this new setting, aiming for a grimdark atmosphere that may appeal to fans of indie titles like Mörk Borg.
The official debut of Death Saves will include a live play event at GenCon, scheduled for Friday at 11:30 a.m. ET on the Janet Allen Stage. While specific details about the setting remain scarce, its designation as an official Wizards of the Coast product and Manganiello's ongoing collaboration with the publisher indicate a significant expansion for Dungeons & Dragons' world-building. Further information is expected as the setting's debut approaches.